Looking to patch some rust spots on my 53 panel truck what gage steel is used on the old trucks?Who sells small sheets of steel i live in nj

 

I just bought some small sheets at Lowes a few hours ago. About 5.00 bucks a sheet. I bought .026 to do the patches I need to do. Not sure of the original guage though.

 

Most of the metal on your 53 is 18 gauge, the patch panels I just got from Mid-Fifty are 20 gauge.

 

There is always a supply of junk parts around that I use to cut sections out for patches. An old hood or roof panel goes a long way when making patches...and most times I can find one with the proper curve to it to match the body section I am repairing. If you go to any body shop in your area they probably have a pile of sheetmetal out back waiting for the junk guy to pick up, usually they will be happy to give you what you need.

 

Don't be afraid to show some pictures of your panel. I was told by a body man that the original gauge was 19 but is hard to come by and expensive so most will use 20 gauge as it's easier to form than 18 gauge. I did as Charlie mentioned and was able to find some patches that were dang close to what I needed. As you well know you have to pretty much fab your patches anything rear of the doors. Show us some pictures of the areas you're looking at patching. I got a lot of use from rear fenders of a pickup.

 

This is a most informative thread here. I will shortly begin patching on old Gertie, and will need to find suitable donor stock.

Keep the info coming.

Dave

 

Check your local welding/machine/fabrication shops. (or commercial retailers)
Ask if they have a "drop pile". You can buy all the sheet metal you need for just above scrap prices, and less than half of what the big box retailers sell it for.